Martial arts training devices

ABSTRACT

Martial arts training devices including a shoulder assembly, a first joint, a second joint, a first arm, a second arm, a first actuator, a second actuator, and a controller. The shoulder assembly includes a body. The first joint and the second joint are moveably supported on the body. The first arm is coupled to the first joint. The second arm is coupled to the second joint. The first actuator is configured to move the first joint to cause the first arm to simulate a first martial art strike. The second actuator is configured to move the second joint to cause the second arm to simulate a second martial art strike. The controller is operatively supported by the shoulder assembly and configured to selectively activate the first actuator and the second actuator.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to copending U.S. application, Ser. No. 63/073,101, filed on Sep. 1, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to training devices. In particular, training devices configured for martial arts training are described.

Martial arts are systems of combat practiced for military applications, law enforcement, athletic competitions, self-defense, and exercise. Training is necessary to become proficient in the various martial arts disciplines. In addition to becoming proficient with the techniques of a given martial arts discipline, martial arts training is great exercise and an enjoyable activity.

Traditionally, martial art training has been accomplished in classes by instructors and with sparring partners. However, there is also significant interest among martial arts enthusiasts to train by themselves without needing another person. At the time of this application, the Covid-19 pandemic is limiting the availability of in-person training opportunities.

Known options for individual martial arts training are not entirely satisfactory. Shadow boxing or performing strikes and kicks in space does not provide force feedback and does not allow one to develop impact strength and toughness. Further, training without a physical target of some kind limits one's ability to more precisely direct his or her strikes to an intended target.

Martial arts training devices exist, such as punching bags and strike targets, but they have a number of drawbacks. One drawback of conventional training devices is that they are generally stationary. Stationary devices limit one's capacity to develop hand-eye-coordination, foot-eye-coordination, and, more generally, body-eye-coordination from tracking, blocking, and/or dodging moving elements.

Another drawback of conventional training devices is that they are oriented exclusively to offensive techniques, namely, striking a target. A device that limits training to offensive techniques deprives the user of opportunities to develop and refine defensive techniques, such as avoiding or blocking strikes.

Thus, there exists a need for martial arts training devices that improve upon and advance the design of known martial arts training devices. Examples of new and useful martial arts training devices relevant to the needs existing in the field are discussed below.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to martial arts training devices. The martial arts training devices include a shoulder assembly, a first joint, a second joint, a first arm, a second arm, a first actuator, a second actuator, and a controller.

The shoulder assembly includes a body. The first joint and the second joint are moveably supported on the body. The first arm is coupled to the first joint. The second arm is coupled to the second joint.

The first actuator is configured to move the first joint to cause the first arm to simulate a first martial art strike. The second actuator is configured to move the second joint to cause the second arm to simulate a second martial art strike. The controller is operatively supported by the shoulder assembly and configured to selectively activate the first actuator and the second actuator.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a person training with a martial arts training device.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the martial arts training device shown in FIG. 1 without the person.

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the martial arts training device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a right side elevation view of the martial arts training device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the martial arts training device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the martial arts training device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a bottom elevation view of the martial arts training device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a right side elevation view of the martial arts training device shown in FIG. 1 adjusted to a different height than depicted in FIG. 3.

FIG. 9 is a close up view of two arm assemblies configured to simulate martial art strikes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The disclosed martial arts training devices will become better understood through review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures. The detailed description and figures provide merely examples of the various inventions described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed examples may be varied, modified, and altered without departing from the scope of the inventions described herein. Many variations are contemplated for different applications and design considerations; however, for the sake of brevity, each and every contemplated variation is not individually described in the following detailed description.

Throughout the following detailed description, examples of various martial arts training devices are provided. Related features in the examples may be identical, similar, or dissimilar in different examples. For the sake of brevity, related features will not be redundantly explained in each example. Instead, the use of related feature names will cue the reader that the feature with a related feature name may be similar to the related feature in an example explained previously. Features specific to a given example will be described in that particular example. The reader should understand that a given feature need not be the same or similar to the specific portrayal of a related feature in any given figure or example.

Definitions

The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated.

“Substantially” means to be more-or-less conforming to the particular dimension, range, shape, concept, or other aspect modified by the term, such that a feature or component need not conform exactly. For example, a “substantially cylindrical” object means that the object resembles a cylinder, but may have one or more deviations from a true cylinder.

“Comprising,” “including,” and “having” (and conjugations thereof) are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude additional elements or method steps not expressly recited.

Terms such as “first”, “second”, and “third” are used to distinguish or identify various members of a group, or the like, and are not intended to denote a serial, chronological, or numerical limitation.

“Coupled” means connected, either permanently or releasably, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components.

“Communicatively coupled” means that an electronic device exchanges information with another electronic device, either wirelessly or with a wire-based connector, whether directly or indirectly through a communication network.

“Controllably coupled” means that an electronic device controls operation of another electronic device.

Martial Arts Training Devices

With reference to the figures, martial arts training devices will now be described. The martial arts training devices discussed herein function to enable users to train martial art disciplines by themselves. The training devices allow users to train both offensive and defensive martial arts techniques. The training devices provide targets to practice striking and moving arms to practice avoiding or blocking strikes.

With the training devices described in this document, people can train martial arts at home without a coach. Users can spar with reduced or eliminated risk of injury and bodily harm. Advantageously, users can train without another person present whenever the user has time to train. The training devices described herein enable users to improve their reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive processing speed. The training devices also act as a focus pad coach, so users do not need a human coach to teach combinations and hold pads for them.

The reader will appreciate from the figures and description below that the presently disclosed martial arts training devices address many of the shortcomings of conventional martial arts training devices. For example, the training devices discussed herein allow one to develop impact strength and toughness by striking physical targets and blocking physical strikes. Further, the present training devices help users to more precisely direct their strikes to an intended target than is possible with shadow boxing type exercises.

The martial arts training devices described in this document also improve on the drawbacks of conventional training devices, such as punching bags and strike targets. For example, rather than being stationary like existing training devices, the training devices introduced herein provide moving arms to facilitate developing hand-eye-coordination, foot-eye-coordination, and, more generally, body-eye-coordination.

A significant improvement over conventional training devices is the fact that the devices discussed below enable training both offensive and defensive techniques. With the training devices introduced in this document, one can train offensive techniques like striking a target and defensive techniques like avoiding or blocking strikes. Advantageously, the devices discussed herein enable one to train both offensive and defensive techniques concurrently to better simulate real-world scenarios.

Contextual Details

Ancillary features relevant to the martial arts training devices described herein will first be described to provide context and to aid the discussion of the martial arts training devices.

Vertical Surface

The martial arts training devices described herein may be mounted to vertical surfaces. As shown in FIG. 1, martial arts training device 100 is mounted to a vertical surface 119, which is a wall. Mounting the martial arts training device to a vertical surface is optional. For example, in some instances the martial arts training devices described below are freestanding.

The vertical surface may be any currently known or later developed vertical surface suitable for mounting the martial arts training devices described below. Suitable vertical surfaces include walls, doors, furniture, frames, and the like.

The reader should understand that the term vertical is used for convenience and that the surface need not be vertical in all instances. Suitable surfaces may be slanted, curved, or even horizontal.

Martial Arts Training Device Embodiment One

With reference to FIGS. 1-9, a martial arts training device 100 will now be described as a first example of a martial arts training device. As shown in FIGS. 1-9, martial arts training device 100 includes a shoulder assembly 101, a first joint 103, a second joint 104, a third joint 127, a fourth joint 130, a first arm 105, a second arm 106, a third arm 128, a fourth arm 131, a first actuator 107, a second actuator 108, a third actuator 129, a fourth actuator 132, a controller 109, a head pad 113, a spine 116, a bracket 120, and a torso pad 126. In other examples, the martial arts training device includes fewer components than depicted in the figures, such as fewer joints, arms, and/or actuators. In certain examples, the martial arts training device includes additional or alternative components than depicted in the figures.

The size and shape of the martial arts training device may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the martial arts training device is larger relative to the person than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the martial arts training device is smaller relative to the person than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the martial arts training device and the person may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

Shoulder Assembly

Shoulder assembly 101 functions to support other components of martial arts training device 100, such as joints and a head pad. As shown in FIG. 2, shoulder assembly 101 also serves to house controller 109. The reader can see in FIGS. 1-9 that shoulder assembly 101 includes a body 102.

As depicted in FIG. 9, body 102 includes a first lateral side 110. With continued reference to FIG. 9, body 102 includes a first medial portion 111 inset from first lateral side 110. As shown in FIG. 9, body 102 includes an upper portion 112.

The body may be any currently known or later developed type of enclosure or housing. The reader will appreciate that a variety of enclosure and housing types exist and could be used in place of the body shown in the figures. In addition to the types of enclosures and housings existing currently, it is contemplated that the martial arts training devices described herein could incorporate new types of enclosures and housings developed in the future.

The size and shape of the body may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the body is larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the body is smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the body and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

Joints

The role of the joints is to enable the arms to move when driven by the actuators to simulate martial art strikes. The reader can see in FIGS. 1-9 that first joint 103 is moveably supported on body 102. With reference to FIGS. 1-9, first joint 103 is moveably supported on first lateral side 110 of body 102.

As depicted in FIGS. 1-9, second joint 104 is moveably supported on body 102. As shown in FIG. 9, second joint 104 is moveably supported on first medial portion 111 of body 102. The reader can see in FIG. 9 that second joint 104 is moveably supported on upper portion 112 of body 102.

As depicted in FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5, third joint 127 is moveably supported on body 102. In the present example, third joint 127 is located in a mirror image position on body 102 relative to second joint 104. Third joint 127 is moveably supported on a second medial portion of body 102 that is a mirror image of first medial portion 111. The reader can see in FIGS. 1-5, 7, and 8 that third joint 127 is moveably supported on upper portion 112 of body 102.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5, fourth joint 130 is moveably supported on body 102. Fourth joint 130 is located in a mirror image position on body 102 relative to first joint 103. Fourth joint 130 is moveably supported on a second lateral side of body 102 opposite first lateral side 110.

In the present example, as shown most clearly in FIG. 9, first joint 103 includes a socket 151 and a swivel arm 150. Each joint is configured similarly, so just one joint, first joint 103, will be described in detail.

The first joint may also include a spring biasing the joint back to a start position after the joint is moved by the first actuator. The spring may be mounted at the base of the socket.

Swivel arm 150 couples to first actuator 107 and is driven by first actuator 107. As such, swivel arm 150 moves in response to first actuator 107 moving. A first end of the swivel arm mechanically fastens to an output shaft of the actuator. A second end of the swivel arm opposite the first end couples to a motor housing compartment of the actuator by an axel pin, which hinges on a ball bearing.

As shown in FIG. 9, socket 151 is configured to support first arm 105. In some examples, the first arm is removably secured within the socket. In the present example, first arm 105 is secured within socket 151 with an adhesive. Socket 151 mechanically fastens to swivel arm 150.

The size and shape of the joints may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the joints are larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the joints are smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the joints and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

The number of joints in the martial arts training device may be selected to meet the needs of a given application. The reader should appreciate that the number of joints may be different in other examples than is shown in the figures. For instance, some martial arts training device examples include additional or fewer joints than described in the present example.

The joints may be any currently known or later developed type of joint. The reader will appreciate that a variety of joint types exist and could be used in place of the joints shown in the figures. In addition to the types of joints existing currently, it is contemplated that the martial arts training devices described herein could incorporate new types of joints developed in the future.

Arms

The arms serve to simulate human arms and martial art strikes. The user may block the strikes or dodge them. The arms are padded to reduce the potential for injury from the strikes.

Each arm couples to their respective joint by inserting into the sockets of the joint. In the present example, the arms are secured to the sockets with adhesives, but adhesives are not required in all examples. In some examples, the arms are configured to be selectively removable.

The arms include a shaft and padding mounted to the shaft. In the example shown in the figures, the arms are 2-inches in diameter, but smaller and larger sizes may be used. The padding materials may be foam or any other currently known or later developed material suitable to distribute impact forces.

The reader can see in FIGS. 1-9 that first arm 105 is coupled to first joint 103. As depicted in FIGS. 1-8, first arm 105 simulates a human arm and a first martial art strike when moved by first actuator 107 in response to commands from controller 109. As shown in FIGS. 1-8, the first martial art strike is a horizontal side blow.

As shown in FIGS. 1-9, second arm 106 is coupled to second joint 104. With reference to FIGS. 1-8, second arm 106 simulates a human arm and a second martial art strike when moved by second actuator 108 in response to commands from controller 109. The reader can see in FIGS. 1-8 that the second martial art strike is an overhead downward blow.

As depicted in FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5, third arm 128 is coupled to third joint 127. Third arm 128 simulates a human arm and a third martial art strike when moved by third actuator 129 in response to commands from controller 109. As shown in FIG. 1, the third martial art strike is an overhead downward blow.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5, fourth arm 131 is coupled to fourth joint 130. Fourth arm 131 simulates a human arm and a fourth martial art strike when moved by fourth actuator 132 in response to commands from controller 109. The fourth martial art strike is a horizontal side blow.

The arms may be composed of any currently known or later developed material suitable for the applications described herein for which they are used. Suitable materials include metals, polymers, ceramics, wood, and composite materials.

The arms may be any currently known or later developed type of arm. The reader will appreciate that a variety of arm types exist and could be used in place of the arms shown in the figures. In addition to the types of arms existing currently, it is contemplated that the martial arts training devices described herein could incorporate new types of arms developed in the future.

The size and shape of the arms may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the arms are larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the arms are smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the arms and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

The number of arms in the martial arts training device may be selected to meet the needs of a given application. The reader should appreciate that the number of arms may be different in other examples than is shown in the figures. For instance, some martial arts training device examples include additional or fewer arms than described in the present example.

The actuators function to move the joints to in turn move the arms to simulate martial art strikes. As shown in FIGS. 1-9, first actuator 107 is configured to move first joint 103 to cause first arm 105 to simulate a first martial art strike. The reader can see in FIGS. 1-9 that second actuator 108 is configured to move second joint 104 to cause second arm 106 to simulate a second martial art strike.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 5, and 6, third actuator 129 is configured to move third joint 127 to cause third arm 128 to simulate a third martial art strike. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, 5, and 6, fourth actuator 132 is configured to move fourth joint 130 to cause fourth arm 131 to simulate a fourth martial art strike.

As depicted in FIG. 9, first actuator 107 is a servo motor. In the present example, each actuator is a servo.

The servo includes a motor and an output shaft. The motor operates to turn the output shaft in response to commands from controller 109. The output shaft turning causes the joint coupled to the servo to pivot relative to body 102. In the present example, the motors are mounted onto a motor housing compartment, which is built into the training device for the lower two arms and attached to the body via snap in place and bolts.

The servo may be any type of mechanized pivoting mechanism currently known or later developed, including motors, pneumatic actuators, and magnetic actuators. The reader should understand that actuators other than servo mechanisms, which typically have error-sensing negative feedback capabilities, may be used.

The force at which the motor of the servo causes the arm supports to pivot is selectable. In the present example, the servos are configured to cause the arm supports of the joints to pivot at three discrete force levels. The servos may be configured with a single pivoting force, two discrete pivoting forces, more than three pivoting forces, or a substantially continuous range of pivoting forces.

The number of actuators in the martial arts training device may be selected to meet the needs of a given application. The reader should appreciate that the number of actuators may be different in other examples than is shown in the figures. For instance, some martial arts training device examples include additional or fewer actuators than described in the present example.

The size and shape of the actuators may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the actuators are larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the actuators are smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the actuators and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

The actuators may be any currently known or later developed type of actuator. The reader will appreciate that a variety of actuator types exist and could be used in place of the actuators shown in the figures. In addition to the types of actuators existing currently, it is contemplated that the martial arts training devices described herein could incorporate new types of actuators developed in the future.

Controller

Controller 109 functions to selectively activate the actuators to cause them to drive the joints to simulate martial art strike with the arms. Controller 109 may be programmed to provide a wide variety of different training experiences for the user

Controller 109 is configured to selectively and independently activate first actuator 107, second actuator 108, third actuator 129 and fourth actuator 132. In the present example, controller 109 is configured to selectively activate the actuators in predetermined sequences to simulate sequences of martial art strikes.

The reader can see in FIGS. 1 and 2 that controller 109 is operatively supported by shoulder assembly 101. In particular, as shown in FIG. 2, controller 109 includes a computing device 160 mounted inside body 102 of shoulder assembly 101. Further, controller 109 includes a user interface 161 mounted to the front of body 102. The computing device may be any currently known or later developed type of computing device operable to control the actuators to drive movement of the arms.

In the present example, user interface 161 is a touchscreen. In other examples, the user interface may include buttons, a keypad, or other input devices in addition or alternatively to a touchscreen. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface may be a software application running on a separate computing device, such as a smartphone or laptop computer, in data communication with computing device 160 of controller 109.

The controller may provide a variety of training modes. For example, controller 109 provides three primary training modes: practice mode, spar mode, and combo mode.

In practice mode, training device 100 strikes at the user in a predictable fashion one arm at a time starting from the top anatomical left to right and then bottom left and right. The predictable sequence of blows in practice mode is continuous until a selected time goal is reached.

In spar mode, the training device strikes at the user randomly according to the strike level selected. The strike level indicates the maximum number of strikes the training device will make per attack. Four strike levels are provided in the current example, but more or fewer strike modes may be present in other examples.

In combination mode, users select a number of strike combinations from a combo menu. Strike combination options include up to 122 strike combinations. After choosing the strike combinations to include, users can then select if they want to practice the combinations in sequence, linked together, or in a random order.

Sequenced means training device 100 will execute the selected strike combinations in the order selected every two seconds. Linked means training device 100 will link all the combinations together without pause creating one long combination. With the linked option, training device 100 will pause two seconds after completing the linked strike combinations before executing the next sequence of linked strike combinations. Random means training device 100 will randomly execute one selected strike combination at a time, every two seconds.

After selecting a desired training program via user interface 161, users can then select other options to customize their training. For example, the user may select how many training rounds to complete, such as between 1 and 12 rounds. The user can also specify how long each round will be, such as between 1 to 3 minutes, and how much rest time there will be between rounds, such as between 30 to 60 seconds. Of course, the number of rounds and time parameters can all be different than the specific examples used in training device 100 in different examples of the training devices contemplated herein.

Additional customized training settings are also provided by controller 109. For example, the user may select the speed of the strikes delivered by the arms, such as between 20% and 100% of the maximum strike speed training device is capable of delivering.

The user may also select the training intensity level, such as between three distinct intensity levels. With intensity level 1, the arms remain in the original position and strike at the user normally as described above. With intensity level 2, the resting position of the arms moves 10 degrees closer and strike in the same manner. With intensity level 3, the arms remain in the same rest position as intensity level 2, but strike faster, such as 50% faster strikes.

The faster strikes may be achieved by initiating subsequent strikes when an arm from a previous strike reaches its maximum strike angle, but before the arm retracts. The faster strike approach just described contrasts with the strike approach in the first two intensity levels where the subsequent arm will initiate the strike only when the arm used in the previous strike fully retracts to its original position.

The controller may be any currently known or later developed type of controller. The reader will appreciate that a variety of controller types exist and could be used in place of the controller shown in the figures. In addition to the types of controllers existing currently, it is contemplated that the martial arts training devices described herein could incorporate new types of controllers developed in the future.

The number of controllers in the martial arts training device may be selected to meet the needs of a given application. The reader should appreciate that the number of controllers may be different in other examples than is shown in the figures. For instance, some martial arts training device examples include additional or fewer controllers than described in the present example.

Head Pad

Head pad 113 functions to simulate a human head for a user to practice striking. With reference to FIGS. 1-6, and 8, head pad 113 is mounted to body 102 and extends beyond an upper portion 112 of body 102. As shown in FIGS. 1-6, and 8, head pad 113 includes a flexible neck 114 and a head member 115.

Flexible Neck

The role of flexible neck 114 is to enable head member 115 to move when struck to absorb some of the strike energy. Head member 115 moving in response to strikes helps simulate real-world fight dynamics and helps protect the user from injury.

In the present example, flexible neck 114 is a spring. The specific spring example depicted in the figures is a 2-inch diameter by ¼ inch wire diameter industrial grade compression spring. The neck plate is bolted onto the back of body 130 with four lag bolts. In other examples, the spring is configured differently.

The reader can see in FIGS. 1-5, and 7 that flexible neck 114 is coupled to body 102. Further, flexible neck 114 extends from upper portion 112 of body 102. The spring of flexible neck 114 is routed through body 102 and attached to a steel neck plate.

The size and shape of the flexible neck may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the flexible neck is larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the flexible neck is smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the flexible neck and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

Head Member

As depicted in FIGS. 1-6, and 8, head member 115 is mounted to flexible neck 114. Head member 115 simulates a human head and is padded to enable striking it without injury. The head member may be composed of any currently known or later developed material suitable for striking.

The size and shape of the head member may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the head member is larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the head member is smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the head member and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

Spine

Spine 116 functions to supports shoulder assembly 101. Spine further supports torso pad 126.

As shown in FIGS. 4-6 and 8, spine 116 includes a first end 117 and a second end 118. First end 117 is proximate bracket 120 and distal shoulder assembly 101. Second end 118 is proximate shoulder assembly 101 and distal bracket 120. With reference to FIGS. 4-6 and 8, spine 116 is coupled to shoulder assembly 101 at second end 118. As depicted in FIGS. 4 and 8, spine 116 is configured to couple to vertical surface 119 proximate first end 117 via bracket 120.

With reference to FIGS. 4 and 8, spine 116 is bent between first end 117 and second end 118 to space second end 118 from vertical surface 119 to which spine 116 is coupled via bracket 120. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, spine 116 defines a plurality of height option openings 125 proximate first end 117.

The size and shape of the spine may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the spine is larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the spine is smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the spine and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

In the present example, the spine is composed of metal. However, the spine may be composed of any currently known or later developed material suitable for the applications described herein for which it is used. Suitable materials include metals, polymers, ceramics, wood, and composite materials.

Bracket

Bracket 120 functions to mount martial arts training device 100 to vertical surface 119. As shown in FIGS. 1, 4, and 8, bracket 120 is configured to selectively couple to vertical surface 119 by being placed against and mechanically fastened to vertical surface 119. The reader can see in FIGS. 1, 4, and 8 that bracket 120 is selectively coupled to spine 116 proximate first end 117.

Bracket 120 defines four openings through which bolts may pass through to couple bracket 120 to the wall against which it is placed. The openings defined by the bracket may be spaced to coincide with the standard spacing of studs in a wall.

As depicted in FIGS. 1-4, and 8, bracket 120 is configured to couple to spine 116 at different positions along spine 116 to adjust the effective height of spine 116 when spine 116 is coupled to bracket 120. With reference to FIGS. 1-4, and 8, bracket 120 defines a tunnel 121 complementarily configured with spine 116 to enable spine 116 to extend through tunnel 121. The reader can see in FIGS. 1 and 2 that tunnel 121 defines a height selection opening 122. As shown in FIGS. 1-4, and 8, bracket 120 includes a pin 124 configured to extend through height selection opening 122 aligned with a selected height option opening 125 to selectively fix the position of spine 116 relative to bracket 120.

In the example shown in FIGS. 1-4, and 8, bracket 120 is substantially planar. However, the size and shape of the bracket, including the tunnel, may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the bracket is larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the bracket is smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the bracket and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

The bracket may be any currently known or later developed type of bracket. The reader will appreciate that a variety of bracket types exist and could be used in place of the bracket shown in the figures. In addition to the types of brackets existing currently, it is contemplated that the martial arts training devices described herein could incorporate new types of brackets developed in the future.

In the present example, bracket 120 is composed of metal. However, the bracket may be composed of any currently known or later developed material suitable for coupling the training device to a wall and for supporting other components of the training device. Suitable materials include metals, polymers, wood, and composite materials.

Torso Pad

The role of torso pad 126 is to providing a striking target for a person training with martial arts training device 100. As depicted in FIGS. 1-3 and 6, torso pad 126 simulates a human torso for a user to practice directing strikes to an opponent's torso. The reader can see in FIGS. 1-4 and 7 that torso pad 126 is coupled to spine 116 below shoulder assembly 101.

Torso pad 126 includes a flexible member 170 and a torso member 171. In the present example, flexible member 170 is a spring. The specific spring for flexible member 170 depicted in the figures is a 2-inch diameter by ¼ inch wire diameter industrial grade compression spring. In other examples, the spring is configured differently.

As depicted in FIGS. 1-6, and 8, torso member 171 is mounted to flexible member 170. Torso member 171 simulates a human torso and is padded to enable striking it without injury. The torso member may be composed of any currently known or later developed material suitable for striking.

The number of torso pads in the martial arts training device may be selected to meet the needs of a given application. The reader should appreciate that the number of torso pads may be different in other examples than is shown in the figures. For instance, some martial arts training device examples include additional or fewer torso pads than described in the present example.

The size and shape of the torso pad may be varied as needed for a given application. In some examples, the torso pad is larger relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. In other examples, the torso pad is smaller relative to the other components than depicted in the figures. Further, the reader should understand that the torso pad and the other components may all be larger or smaller than described herein while maintaining their relative proportions.

In the present example, the torso pad is composed of a soft, resilient material. The torso pad may be composed of or covered by any currently known or later developed material suitable for a user to safely strike.

Additional Variations

The reader will appreciate that a variety of variations beyond those discussed above may be made without departing from the inventive aspects of the training devices discussed above. For example, the training devices could use a LCD screen with manual controls and/or the onboard controls could be replaced with a software application. The size of the touchscreen could be larger or smaller than depicted in the figures.

The controller could include additional or alternative coded instructions to make the arms attack in an unpredictable matter. For example, one could change the code for arm strike allocations for each arm.

The materials of the body, the torso pad, and/or the head pad could be modified and still provide the same functions. The arms could be disposed at different angles or positions. Additionally or alternatively, the number of arms could be increased or decreased. The manner and location in which the arms, spine, head pad, and torso attach could be modified. The aesthetic design of the training device could be changed to suit a given aesthetic need.

The disclosure above encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility. While each of these inventions has been disclosed in a particular form, the specific embodiments disclosed and illustrated above are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed above and inherent to those skilled in the art pertaining to such inventions. Where the disclosure or subsequently filed claims recite “a” element, “a first” element, or any such equivalent term, the disclosure or claims should be understood to incorporate one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.

Applicant(s) reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed inventions that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same invention or a different invention and whether they are different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the inventions described herein. 

1. A martial arts training device, comprising: a shoulder assembly including a body; a first joint moveably supported on the body; a second joint moveably supported on the body; a first arm coupled to the first joint; a second arm coupled to the second joint; a first actuator configured to move the first joint to cause the first arm to simulate a first martial art strike; a second actuator configured to move the second joint to cause the second arm to simulate a second martial art strike; a controller operatively supported by the shoulder assembly and configured to selectively activate the first actuator and the second actuator.
 2. The martial arts training device of claim 1, wherein: the body includes a first lateral side; and the first joint is moveably supported on the first lateral side of the body.
 3. The martial arts training device of claim 2, wherein the first arm simulates a human arm.
 4. The martial arts training device of claim 3, wherein: the body includes a first medial portion inset from the first lateral side; and the second joint is moveably supported on the first medial portion of the body.
 5. The martial arts training device of claim 4, wherein: the body includes an upper portion; and the second joint is moveably supported on the upper portion of the body.
 6. The martial arts training device of claim 5, wherein the second arm simulates a human arm.
 7. The martial arts training device of claim 6, wherein the first martial art strike is a horizontal side blow.
 8. The martial arts training device of claim 7, wherein the second martial art strike is an overhead downward blow.
 9. The martial arts training device of claim 1, further comprising a head pad simulating a human head mounted to the body an extending beyond an upper portion of the body.
 10. The martial arts training device of claim 9, wherein the head pad includes: a flexible neck coupled to the body and extending from the upper portion of the body; and a head member mounted to the flexible neck.
 11. The martial arts training device of claim 1, further comprising a spine coupled to the shoulder assembly.
 12. The martial arts training device of claim 11, wherein: the spine includes a first end distal the shoulder assembly; the spine includes a second end coupled to the shoulder assembly; and the spine is configured to operatively couple to a vertical surface proximate the first end.
 13. The martial arts training device of claim 12, wherein the spine is bent between the first end and the second end to space the second end from the vertical surface to which the spine is operatively coupled.
 14. The martial arts training device of claim 12, further comprising a bracket selectively coupled to the spine proximate the first end and configured to selectively couple to the vertical surface.
 15. The martial arts training device of claim 14, wherein the bracket is configured to couple to the spine at different positions along the spine to adjust the effective height of the spine when the spine is coupled to the bracket.
 16. The martial arts training device of claim 15, wherein: the bracket defines a tunnel complementarily configured with the spine to enable the spine to extend through the tunnel; the tunnel defines a height selection opening; the spine defines a plurality of height option openings proximate the first end; and the bracket includes a pin configured to extend through the height selection opening and a selected height option opening to selectively fix the position of the spine relative to the bracket.
 17. The martial arts training device of claim 11, further comprising a torso pad simulating a human torso coupled to the spine below the shoulder assembly.
 18. The martial arts training device of claim 1, wherein the first actuator is a servo motor.
 19. The martial arts training device of claim 1, further comprising: a third joint moveably supported on the body; a third arm coupled to the third joint; a third actuator configured to move the third joint to cause the third arm to simulate a third martial art strike; a fourth joint moveably supported on the body; a fourth arm coupled to the fourth joint; and a fourth actuator configured to move the fourth joint to cause the fourth arm to simulate a fourth martial art strike.
 20. The martial arts training device of claim 19, wherein the controller is configured to selectively activate the third actuator and the fourth actuator in predetermined sequences with the first actuator and the second actuator to simulate sequences of martial art strikes. 